How to File for Divorce in Washington State (2025 Guide)

How to File for Divorce in Washington State (2025 Guide)

Planning to file for divorce in Washington? Here’s a simple, step-by-step breakdown to help you understand the process.

✅ 1. Residency Requirement

To file in Washington:

• You or your spouse must be a resident of the state.

• There’s no minimum time requirement — you can file as soon as you move to Washington.

✅ 2. Washington is a No-Fault Divorce State

You only need to state that the marriage is “irretrievably broken.”

There’s no need to prove misconduct like adultery or abuse.

✅ 3. File the Petition

You’ll file a Petition for Dissolution of Marriage in the Superior Court of the county where either spouse lives.

You must also file:

• Confidential Information Form

• Summons

• Vital Statistics Form

• Joinder (if uncontested and spouse agrees)

• Filing fee: Around $280

✅ 4. Serve the Divorce Papers

If your spouse didn’t sign a Joinder, they must be legally served using a process server, sheriff, or by mail with acknowledgment.

Your spouse has 20 days (if served in WA) or 60 days (if outside the state) to respond.

✅ 5. Mandatory Waiting Period

Washington requires a 90-day waiting period from the date the petition is filed and served — even if it’s uncontested.

✅ 6. Work on Agreements

You and your spouse must decide on:

• Division of assets and debts

• Child custody and parenting plan (if applicable)

• Child support

• Spousal maintenance (alimony)

If you agree, submit the Agreed Final Divorce Order and supporting forms.

✅ 7. Finalize Your Divorce

If uncontested: After 90 days, the court can approve your agreement and sign the Final Divorce Order.

If contested: A trial or mediation may be necessary.

✅ 8. After the Divorce

Once finalized:

Update your legal documents and accounts

Follow court orders

Request a name change if it was part of the petition

Note: Washington is a community property state, so all marital property is usually split 50/50 unless agreed otherwise or ordered by the court.